Watch CBS News

Man Sentenced For Neighborhood Rampage: 'Incredible Danger'

DENVER (CBS4)- There was strong reaction from those filing out of the courtroom on Monday after a man was sentenced for putting his entire neighborhood on alert and killing his neighbor.

"I think the judge understood what the jury finding meant. This was not an accident. And this was an incredible danger to the community that this man presented. Her sentenced showed that," said Denver Deputy District Attorney Allison Rocker.

Daniel Abeyta was sentenced to 48 years in prison on Monday. Abeyta was found guilty of second-degree murder, first-degree assault and child abuse in June. He also shot his wife and put his whole neighborhood in danger with homemade explosives.

Daniel Abeyta
Daniel Abeyta (credit: Denver Police/CBS)

Abeyta's mother believes her son deserved a lighter sentence.

"He's not a monster. It was unfair but so be it. That's the way it's supposed to be. That's the way it is," said Alice Abeyta.

The sentence handed down on Monday includes 40 years for second-degree murder and eight years for assault. Two years for child abuse will be served at the same time.

"Maybe the end of the relationship, he just lost it," said Abeyta's friend Virgilio Trinidad.

Prosecutors say the bombs he created were propane tanks that were rigged with gunpowder on top so they would explode when Abeyta shot at them.

The incident happened in August 2013 at his home on South Irving Street near Evans in the Harvey Park neighborhood. He has been behind bars since he was arrested.

VIDEO: Watch CBS4's Report From The Scene On The Day Of The Shooting

Police ended up shooting and seriously injuring Abeyta.

Abeyta's wife was shot in the lower part of her body. His neighbor Sandra Roskilly, 47, was killed when she tried to help Abeyta's wife.

Abeyta's mother also apologized to the victim's family, "To her family, I hope they find peace. They really need it. I have my peace and I want them to have their peace."

"I don't think a judge's decision ever brings closure, especially for someone as loved as Sandy," said Rocker.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.